Review: Hidden Beneath by Lauryn April

Hidden Beneath ( Into the Deep #2)

Lauryn April

Publication Date: August 17, 2013

Kindle Edition

~YA/NA~

Summary:

Just when Ivy Daniels thought her life was going exactly how she wanted it, a surprise visitor arrives to shake up her world. Two years after an accident left Ivy with the ability to read minds she’s finally put her past behind her. Now, the summer after her senior year of high school Ivy is looking forward to going away to college and enjoying the rest of her vacation with her best friend Charlie and boyfriend Aden. The life altering events of her junior year of high school that made her realize things aren’t always as they appear have been pushed to the back of Ivy’s mind, and so has the memory of the one person who helped her though them – that is until he shows up on her door step a month before she leaves for L.A. asking for her help.

Where has Ivy’s ex-boyfriend, Brant, been, and why did he leave? Find out in this sequel to Into the Deep that will lead take you on an adventure filled with secrets, lost love, and forgiveness. (Goodreads)

Review:
     I was really excited when I found out that there was going to be a sequel to Into the Deep. I really enjoyed reading about the main character, Ivy as she not only learned to deal with her ability to read minds but also as she discovered, love and the meaning of true friendship. The story in Hidden Beneath takes place long after the events of Into the Deep. Ivy is headed off to college with her best friend, Charlie. Her life is vastly different from how it was in Into the Deep. Though she had accepted her gift she hasn't really used it because she wants to try and be normal again. Her relationship with Brant is over and she has since started dating Aden. In Hidden Beneath we'll find out why Brant and Ivy are no longer together. We'll also watch as Ivy slowly learns to use her gift to solve a mystery that has plagued the mind of someone she cares about.

     One of the things I really enjoy about these books is the mystery. I love the suspense that has me wondering what is going to happen next. I also like when the characters I'm reading about are able to draw me in and make me hope that all will end well for them. Ivy is one of those characters. Since I hadn't read the description of what this book was about, I just jumped right in and started reading. So I was shocked when I discovered Ivy and Brant were no longer together. I literally had to re-read the passage and all I could think was What?! Why?! I loved them as a couple and I was sad for them. Luckily we find out why and readers aren't left wondering what happened. I'm also glad that Hidden Beneath solves a mystery that developed during the 1st book. I was happy that certain characters were able to get some answers to a mystery that had left them with a ton of questions but few answers.

     Hidden Beneath is a great follow up to Into the Deep. We get another interesting mystery that had me wondering what was going to happen next. Plus I liked being able to get back into the head of a really great character. As an added bonus there are a few scenes at the end of the book told from another character's POV. Let's just say I really, really liked those scenes! My one issue with this book was that I would have liked to learn more about Charlie. I just think that she is an interesting character but we don't get to see much from her.

Cover:
Hmm...not sure how to feel about this cover. I don't hate it but It's not my favorite of the two books. One thing I really like is the font used for the title and the placement of both the title and the author's name. It really bugs me when the title and the author's name are all over the cover making me wonder why anyone bothered to put any imagine behind the gigantic titles.

*book provided by author for a fair and honest review*

Review: Blood-Kissed Sky by J.A. London

Blood-Kissed Sky (Darkness Before Dawn Trilogy #2)

J.A. London

Publication Date: December 26, 2012

Publisher: HarperTeen

Paperback: 368 pgs

Summary:

There's nowhere left to hide.

I thought vampires were our enemies - they controlled our lives, isolated our cities, and demanded our blood - until I met Victor. With Victor taking over as the new Lord Valentine, things were supposed to get better. Instead, they're worse than ever.

Day Walkers, a new breed of vampires who can walk in the sun, are terrorizing the city. Blood supplies are low, and if Victor's vampires don't get enough, they will become infected with the Thirst - a disease that will turn them into mindless killers.

To stop it, I must journey across the desolate wasteland to the very place where the sickness began. I can only hope that the answers that await me are enough to save us all... before it's too late.(Goodreads)

Review:
     Blood-Kissed Sky is the follow up to Darkness Before Dawn. In this story vampires and humans are trying to figure out how to deal with a disease called the Thirst, as well as a new bred of vampire's called Day Walkers. The main character Dawn is determined to find out what is going on with the vampires, though she knows she is putting herself in harms way to do so. Instead of backing down and hiding behind her allies she is focused on finding out how to save her world.

     Dawn is one of those characters that I thoroughly enjoy reading about. She's strong, determined, and willing to do whatever it takes to help those around her. She has some issues in her love life but her problems don't stop her from doing what she feels she needs to do. I'm also a fan of the supporting characters, especially Dawn's best friend, Tegan. She gives Dawn support as well as takes Dawn's mind off her problems. Plus, Tegan is feisty and not interested in letting rules keep her from doing what she wants. Micheal, Dawn's ex is strong, capable and focused on protecting humans from the vampires. Then there is Victor. He's the new overlord of Denver. He's finding  that the pressure of his new job is a little more intense than he thought. All of these characters combine to make a compelling story that I really enjoy.

     I love that this book slowly reveals it's secrets. We don't find out everything at once, each secret is revealed bit by bit which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book. I love the descriptive details that are provided in a Blood-Kissed Sky especially how the author describes Los Angeles. I felt as though I was able to see exactly what was described. I'm really liking the direction this trilogy is headed in. There is no doubt I will be reading the final installment in this trilogy, After Daybreak.

Cover:
     Apparently I am a fan of dark covers. I love this one! It's dark and eerie. The clouds in the background look ominous with that touch of color and I can't help but what what is going on inside this book. I also like how the girl is looking away which makes me wonder what she's looking at. Great cover.

Review: "A Fractured Light" Jocelyn Davies

A Fractured Light (A Beautiful Dark #2)

Jocelyn Davies 

Publication Date: September 25, 2012

Publisher: HarperTeen

Hardcover: 352 pgs

Summary:
When she wakes up in unfamiliar surroundings, Skye knows something terrible has happened to her. It's not until she hears Asher, the dark, rebellious angel she fell in love with, that the memories come flooding back. She tries to put the past behind her, but she knows she'll be forever haunted by the ruthless betrayal that almost took her life.


Skye returns home, but with the knowledge of who she really is, nothing can ever be the same. As she tests the limits of her new-found powers, Skye discovers that she's capable of far more than anyone could have imagined. Both the Order and the Rebellion want her for their side as war between the factions looms. She can't forget the terrifying truth she now knows about the Order, but something holds her back from embracing the Rebellion.

A Fractured Light picks up right after A Beautiful Dark's shocking cliffhanger ending and is perfect for fans of Lauren Kate's Fallen and Becca Fitzpatrick's Hush, Hush saga.

Review:
     A Fractured Light picks up almost exactly where A Beautiful Dark left off. While Skye has recovered physically from the attack that almost took her life she still has to face the consequences of that horrible night. The Order has infiltrated her small town and in order to survive Skye must figure out who she is and what she is meant to do.

     Though I liked the first book, A Beautiful Dark, I enjoyed this one much more. The story was less focused on the main character Skye being torn between Asher (The Rebellion) and Devin (The Order). Instead the story centered more on Skye's struggle to come to terms with who she is and what it means not only to her but to those around her. Skye's life was derailed when she learned about her powers. I like that she is trying to get her life back together, having powers doesn't mean she has to give up everything she once loved. Her strength comes through when she refuses to lose herself in the process of finding out what her powers are and how she's supposed to use them. Another aspect of Skye's personality that I liked was her refusal to blindly follow others. Even though she may be close to those in the Rebellion she still wants to find out things on her own.

     I found the first book to be a little stereo typical but I liked that A Fractured Light incorporated original ideas that I found elevated my enjoyment of the story. I love when a book is able to surprise me with the twists and turns it takes, which is the fun part about  of reading, for me. I'm definitely eager to find out how Skye's story concludes in the last book in this trilogy, A Radiant Sky.

Cover:
     This is by far my favorite cover of this trilogy. I'm a huge fan of the colors it's done in all shades of black, gray and white. Which makes it looking haunting and dark. I also really like the way shadows swirl all around Skye. I think this cover is really pretty.

Review: "Crimson Frost" by Jennifer Estep

Crimson Frost (Mythos Academy #4)

Jennifer Estep

Publication Date: December 24, 2012

Publisher: K-Teen

Paperback 354 pgs

Summary:

For a moment, a face flashed before my eyes—the most hideous face I’d ever seen. No matter how hard I tried to forget what had happened, I saw him everywhere I went. It was Loki—the evil god that I’d helped set free against my will.

I should have known that my first official date with Logan Quinn was destined to end in disaster. If we’d gotten into a sword-fight  or been ambushed by Reapers, I’d have been more prepared. But getting arrested mid-sip at the local coffee hangout? I didn't see that one coming.

I've been accused of purposely helping the Reapers free Loki from his prison—and the person leading the charge against me is Linus Quinn, Logan’s dad. The worst part is that pretty much everyone at Mythos Academy thinks I’m guilty. If I’m going to get out of this mess alive, I’ll have to do it myself.(Goodreads)

Review:
     This is one of those series that as soon as it is released I have to get my hands on it. I love the mythology in this the Mythos Academy and of course the characters are amazing too! But the mythology adds a whole different aspect to my reading experience. In the fourth installment of the Mythos Academy, Gwen is once again fighting to survive the reapers of Chaos. After Loki escaped, Gwen is tasked with killing him which she has no idea how to do. But to add to her troubles Gwen is arrested and charged with helping Loki escape by the Protectorate (police of the mythological world) which is headed up by Linus Quinn, Logan's dad. I believe this might cause a problem or two.

     While Gwen is fighting to do what is right she is being harassed by those who should be helping her. Though everything seems to be falling down around her Gwen refuses to give up. She's strong and has a great determination to do what is right. Her inner strength keeps her going when everything is stacked against her. I can't help but root for her. Gwen is one of those characters that I want to be happy and succeed at every task placed in front of her. At one point, I was so sad for Gwen but even though she was really hurting, the pain made her more determined to do as Nike asked and kill Loki.

     We are introduced to a few new characters, with abilities we haven't seen before. One of the characters is a Ninja another is a Bogatyr each warrior has different traits that they are known for. I love that with each book we learn more about Gwen's mythological world, from exciting creatures to different types of warriors. I would have given this book 5 stars but I knew who the bad guy was as soon as they were introduced. Though I must say the rest of the story was a surprise.

     Crimson Frost is a great addition to The Mythos Academy series. I can't wait to read Midnight Frost to see what happens next in this extremely entertaining series. And I've heard there is going to be an e-story told from Logan's POV called Spartan Frost. I can't even tell you how excited I am for this story!

Cover:
     This cover is okay though I don't think that it represents the great story told within. I'm not really a fan of the different girl on the cover either. It always frustrates me when the cover model on the cover of a book series changes. However, I do like how the girl has bright violet eyes and is wearing the snowflake necklace Gwen wears.

     

Book Review: "The Selection" by Kiera Cass

The Selection (The Selection #1)

Kiera Cass

Publication Date: April 24, 2012

Publisher: Harper Teen

Hardcover: 327 pgs

Summary:

For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself—and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.(Goodreads)

Review:
     I've had The Selection for quite some time and finally decided to give it a try. I was pleasantly surprised as to what I found inside. I really liked the concept of The Selection. In a world where a person is stuck in the caste they are born into the selection is a way for a select group of girls to change their lives. The main character, America is in for a huge shock when she is chosen to participated in the selection. Not only does she move from her small home to the palace she is suddenly surrounded by a bunch of girls from different castes than her own.

    America reluctantly signs up for the selection never thinking in her wildest dreams that she would get chosen. But when she is picked as one of the 35 girls her life changes forever. America doesn't have a lot of friends so fitting in with the other girls is not easy. One thing I really like about America is that she refuses to change in order to fit in. She has a stubborn side which comes out during her stay at the palace. America doesn't want to change for the sake of the competition. She tries to stay true to who she is by staying quiet yet keeping her feisty personality. Not only are these girls competing for the attention of the prince but the selection is televised throughout the nation. Which means they have to not only impress the prince but the nation as well. But behind the glittering walls of the palace lurks a danger that threatens those who live inside. Groups of rebels attack the palace which puts the royals and the girls on edge. I'm hoping The Elite will shed some light onto who the rebels are and what they are after. The rebel attacks add  a touch of danger to this tale of competition.

     Of course what book would be complete without a hot guy or two? America has to leave everything and everyone behind when she gets chosen to participate in the selection including her boyfriend Aspen. Aspen seems like a nice guy. His pride starts to cause problems in his relationship with America. He wants to be able to provide for America which is difficult since he is in a lower caste than her. To me it seems as though America's looks play a big part in their relationship. Prince Maxon's personality slowly gets revealed throughout the book. I really liked him. He's strong, capable, and at times a little vulnerable. He goes out of his way to make the girls feel welcome. And at times he does things which proves he is listening to their concerns. If I had to pick a side I would go with the prince not because he's wealthy and could provide for America but because I just really liked the development of the relationship between him and America. There is still time for Aspen to change my mind. But as of right now I am Team Maxon.

     I really liked The Selection. It is an interesting look into a world that is far different from my own. I also enjoyed how we are able to see how those in the lower castes live as compared to those in the upper castes. The book was very descriptive and I was able to picture the scenes as I read. I was completely drawn into the dazzling world of The Selection. One's caste rarely changes but when it does a person's life is changed completely and forever.

Cover:
     I am definitely a fan of this cover. I think it's gorgeous. I love the vibrant color of the dress as well as the mirrors that reflect America's image everywhere.  

Review: Matched by Ally Condie

Matched ( Matched #1)

Ally Condie
Publication Date: September 20, 2011
Publisher: Speak
Paperback 369 pgs

Summary:

Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black. The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.(Goodreads)

Review:

The main character, Cassia is a 16 year old girl who is looking forward to her future. But after an incident with her Matching ceremony her life starts to change. The glitch causes Cassia to question all that goes on around her. How much of her life is hers and how much of what she does is because of the Society? I liked Cassia. She just doesn't one day start rebelling against the Society. The change in her is gradual as she begins to realize how much her life is controlled by the Society. Which of courser made her believable to me. Her world is slowly shifting and it takes her time to adjust to what she is beginning to understand about her life. There is a bit of a love triangle but it seems as though she has chooses which boy she truly wants to be with early on in the book.

The other characters Xander and Ky are Cassia's love interests. Both seem to be great guys. Each boy plays a part in her life and she doesn't want to have to give either of them up. We learn about Ky and why Cassia is drawn to him. But I don't think that we learned too much about Xander. We see him through Cassia's eyes so we only find out what she knows about him. Not what he does or thinks when they aren't together.

The world Ally Condie created in Matched is nearly perfect. But there are cracks and they are starting to show especially to the people who know to look. People live long, happy healthy lives. It's a life that is without complications. But it's also a life without true freedom. For the choices they make are small compared to the choices that are made for them.

I've had Matched for awhile but I was waiting until Reached came out to start the trilogy. I liked this book but there were some things I felt like I read before. Citizens being controlled by the new government  A main character realizing things aren't as idyllic as they once thought. Trying to find out how to fix things when everything is controlled by the leaders in society. There were also a ton of things that I liked. I liked that Cassia had a strong family that was there for her. Her grandfather was a huge part of her life and he gave her ways to fight even though she may not have realized at the time.Though I liked Matched, I'm hoping that the next books are a little more intense.

Cover:
I really like the paperback cover for Matched. It's simplistic yet definitely eye catching. It's shimmery and very pretty. It shows Cassia in the dress when her life first began to change. Plus the bubble shows how she feels, trapped by the world she lives in. 

Review of "Blood Moon" by Alyxandra Harvey

Blood Moon ( Drake Chronicles #5)

Alyxandra Harvey

Publication Date: June 19, 2012

Publisher: Walker Books

Paperback: 320 pgs

Summary:

     It's almost time for the Blood Moon ceremonies to begin. But the Drakes are having some issues. Solange hasn't been the same since her change. She's become distant and at times nearly feral. Lucy is training at her new school, a Helios Ra Academy. She's transitioning from free spirited to military style which is a huge change. Her relationship with Solange has become strained as the two hardly see each other.  Danger is approaching for the Drakes, will they be able to figure out who is after them before it's too late?

Review:

     Blood Moon is told from three POV's: Solange, Lucy, and Nicholas. I was a little skeptical at first about reading from three POV's but once I started reading I didn't mind the POV shifts. I felt the voices were distinct and I was able to tell the three apart. I also thought that Blood Moon was darker than the first few books in the series. Which allows readers to see that there is more danger surrounding the Drakes than ever before.

     Solange is struggling to deal with the dark feelings that have been overwhelming her lately. I'm not going to lie, Solange is not one of my favorite characters. And in recent books she's become a little annoying. She just seems selfish. Instead of turning to her family for help she instead decides to trust a mysterious stranger. Which of course is never smart.

     Lucy and Nicholas on the other hand are two of my favorites. Lucy has decided that in order to survive in the world she has chosen she needs to be better prepared. I really like how Lucy choose to go to the Helios Ra Academy. It's not a path I would've foreseen for her but I like how I was completely surprised by her choice. Lucy is feisty as ever and refuses to change just because she's now at the academy. Nicholas is busy trying to keep his family safe from the many assassins that have been threatening them. Even though Solange is being difficult, Nicholas proves he will always be on her side. He'll protect her no matter what. 

     I was a little shocked at the ending of Blood Moon, I did not see it coming. Which of course has me super eager to get my hands on the final book in the Drake Chronicles, Blood Prophecy. This series as I mentioned above has gotten darker and I can't wait to see what happens next. 

Cover:

     I'm a fan of this cover. I really like the blue chosen for the title as well as the design around the edges. I also like the pose the couple is in, very steamy. Though I was not too happy with the first few covers in this series. I'm happy with the re-designs.